Deuteronomy 2:3
Ye have compassed this mountain long enough: turn you northward.
Original Language Analysis
רַב
long enough
H7227
רַב
long enough
Strong's:
H7227
Word #:
1 of 9
abundant (in quantity, size, age, number, rank, quality)
סֹ֖ב
Ye have compassed
H5437
סֹ֖ב
Ye have compassed
Strong's:
H5437
Word #:
3 of 9
to revolve, surround, or border; used in various applications, literally and figuratively
אֶת
H853
אֶת
Strong's:
H853
Word #:
4 of 9
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
הָהָ֣ר
this mountain
H2022
הָהָ֣ר
this mountain
Strong's:
H2022
Word #:
5 of 9
a mountain or range of hills (sometimes used figuratively)
הַזֶּ֑ה
H2088
Cross References
Deuteronomy 1:6The LORD our God spake unto us in Horeb, saying, Ye have dwelt long enough in this mount:Deuteronomy 2:14And the space in which we came from Kadesh-barnea, until we were come over the brook Zered, was thirty and eight years; until all the generation of the men of war were wasted out from among the host, as the LORD sware unto them.
Historical Context
Mount Seir was the territory of Edom (Esau's descendants). Turning northward meant skirting Edom's eastern border and heading toward Moab, bringing Israel progressively closer to the Transjordan region they would eventually possess before crossing into Canaan.
Questions for Reflection
- What season in your life has lasted 'long enough' and needs a new direction?
- How do you respond when God says it's time to move forward from a prolonged season?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
The command 'Ye have compassed this mountain long enough' combines assessment (enough circling) with directive (turn northward). God's 'enough' marks the end of one season and the beginning of another. The directive to turn 'northward' points toward Canaan, resuming the interrupted mission. This reveals God's redemptive purposes—discipline is temporary and purposeful, not permanent or vindictive. God always has a 'next step' for His people.